Standardization

In July 2012 the first international standard for OPS systems, called IEC/ISO/IEEE 80005-1 Utility connections in port – Part 1: High Voltage Shore Connection (HVSC) Systems – General requirements has been published. This standard was jointly developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Click here for the link to the complete standard. This standard also refers to standard IEC 62613-1:2011 for the general requirements for plugs, sockets-outlets and ship couplers for high-voltage shore connection systens.

Key components of standardization

Referring to both the application of international electrical standards already available and installation guidance.

Design, installation and testing of high voltage OPS systems covered. Low voltage systems are not covered by the standard.

The standard covers onshore as well as on board equipment and also addresses shore-to-ship connection and interface equipment.

A high share of requirements are related to safety aspects like emergency shut downs.

Advantages of an international standardThe international standard contributes to the harmonization of OPS equipment by avoiding differences in technical characteristics of systems, like voltages, power plug and socket design in such a way that OPS can be used more efficiently at different berths. By use of the international standard safety of OPS systems should improve and ships with OPS equipment onboard should not face difficulties to connect to the terminals equipped with OPS. This will expedite developments owing to lower costs and increased compatibility between shore side installations and onboard equipment. Furthermore, the standard extensively discusses safety facilities to be taken into account when designing an OPS system.